New York, Feb 5, 2026, 21:01 EST — Market closed
- Boeing shares ended the day 0.4% higher, closing at $236.95 despite a widespread selloff across U.S. stocks.
- According to Bloomberg News, Saudia has entered early negotiations to purchase at least 150 aircraft from Boeing and Airbus.
- Traders are eyeing new order announcements from the Singapore Airshow and closely monitoring any developments from a fresh 787 operational probe.
Boeing shares ended Thursday 0.4% higher at $236.95, bouncing between $232.70 and $240.30 throughout the session. Investors balanced fresh airline order rumors against ongoing safety concerns.
This move is crucial since Boeing’s recovery hinges on one key factor: producing and delivering more planes punctually. Even a slight uptick in demand—particularly for costly widebodies—could change forecasts for deliveries and cash flow this year.
The S&P 500 dropped 1.23% amid heavy selling in big tech and AI-related stocks. Investors shifted focus, favoring industrials and defense sectors as safer bets in some portfolios.
Saudi Arabia’s main airline, Saudia, is reportedly in preliminary discussions with Boeing and Airbus about purchasing at least 150 jets, both single-aisle and twin-aisle models, Bloomberg News said, citing insiders. Reuters has yet to confirm the story.
Boeing took the Singapore Airshow as a chance to highlight its product pipeline. The planemaker aims to begin deliveries of upgraded 787-9 and 787-10 Dreamliners in the first half of 2026. With a higher maximum takeoff weight, airlines could extend their range by roughly 400 miles or boost cargo capacity by five to six tons, said Boeing commercial marketing chief Darren Hulst.
The air show takes place from Feb. 3-8, with investors closely watching for fresh order announcements and fleet updates—especially from Asian and Middle Eastern airlines.
Risks remain. Air India is probing if its crew stuck to protocols after a Boeing 787 left London with a suspected fuel-switch issue, then got grounded in India. Britain’s aviation regulator has requested information and set a deadline for Air India’s reply, according to Reuters.
Headlines like that explain why Boeing’s stock often seems to be pricing in two narratives simultaneously: a rebound in production and orders, alongside ongoing expenses from unexpected operational issues and regulatory scrutiny.
Boeing has been pushing investors to focus on production and deliveries. In its late January report, the company highlighted rising output and noted it delivered 600 aircraft in 2025. CFO Jay Malave told analysts he expects free cash flow—cash remaining after capital expenses—between $1 billion and $3 billion in 2026, partly hinging on delays with the 777X and the smallest 737 MAX models. Still, Third Bridge analyst Peter McNally said the quarter revealed “the complications of managing this business.” Reuters
In the next session, traders will watch closely for momentum from airline order news and clues on the overall market trend after a volatile week. Looking ahead, key triggers include new aircraft deals announced before the Singapore Airshow ends on Feb. 8, along with updates from Air India and the UK’s aviation regulator on the 787 probe.
